Maple News reports that international students planning to stay and work in Canada after graduation should be mindful of several key requirements when applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). Failure to understand and meet recent policy changes could result in a refused application.
The PGWP allows international graduates of eligible Canadian post-secondary programs to obtain an open work permit, typically valid for up to three years. This permit is a critical first step for many graduates hoping to gain Canadian work experience and ultimately pursue permanent residency.
However, even a minor oversight can lead to the refusal of a PGWP. Over the past 18 months, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has implemented multiple changes to refine eligibility criteria. Here are ten common factors that could put your application at risk:
1. Choosing an ineligible study program: As of 2024, only certain non-degree programs listed in IRCC’s approved Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) codes qualify. Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees remain broadly eligible.
2. Failing to maintain full-time student status: Applicants must have studied full-time throughout their program, with the exception of their final academic term.
3. Working without authorization: Engaging in employment not permitted under your study permit can result in a loss of status and PGWP refusal.
4. Completing studies outside of Canada: Students starting a program after September 1, 2024, must complete it in Canada, as temporary online study flexibility no longer applies.
5. Not taking a required language test: From November 1, 2024, applicants must provide valid proof of their proficiency in English or French. Missing or inadequate test results will lead to refusal.
6. Applying too late: You have 180 days from the completion of your studies to submit your PGWP application. Late submissions are generally denied.
7. Sending an incomplete application: You must include key documents such as proof of program completion, history of full-time enrollment, language proficiency results, and possibly a medical exam.
8. Expired or soon-to-expire passport: PGWPs cannot be valid beyond your passport’s expiry date. If your passport expires soon, your PGWP may be shortened.
9. Failing to prove your temporary intent: Applicants must show they intend to comply with the terms of their work permit.
10. Being inadmissible: Grounds for inadmissibility include criminality, medical issues, misrepresentation, or inadmissible family members.
Understanding and addressing these factors proactively can help international graduates avoid unnecessary complications and increase their chances of successfully obtaining a PGWP. Maple News will continue monitoring changes to Canada’s immigration policy to ensure students are kept informed.